What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

As workers’ compensation is a state-regulated program, the laws in each state determine the coverage. So, the kinds of injuries and ailments covered, the evaluation of these issues, how medical care is to be delivered, and the amount and kinds of benefits the injured or ill employee may receive—are all dictated by the state.

Usually, workers’ compensation covers medical costs and lost wages for work-related injuries and illnesses. For example, a delivery driver injured in an accident while delivering your product would likely qualify for workers’ compensation aid.

Workers’ compensation insurance also covers illnesses “related to employment,” as defined by the state. The rules for this vary depending on the state and type of industry of your business. A good example is lung disease. If an employee’s lung disease is scientifically linked to exposure to chemicals used in your business, it could be covered by your workers’ compensation insurance.

Oftentimes, workers’ compensation pays costs in addition to medical bills, too. Specific coverage varies by state and insurance policies, but generally, the following additional items are covered:

• Hospital and medical expenses for diagnosis and treatment of a work-related injury or illness
• Disability payments while the employee is unable to work (usually about two-thirds of the regular salary)
• At least a portion of the cost for rehabilitation for permanent injury
• Death benefits for the family of a worker killed on the job

If understanding workers’ compensation insurance seems overwhelming, you’re not alone. E-COMP can help make workers’ compensation easy and awesome. We’ve taken the guesswork out of the process and we’re passionate about providing workers’ compensation insurance for all size businesses across the country.

Start My Quote